Unlocking Innovation: The University of Colorado Boulder’s Embark Deep Tech Startup Creator
The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is at the forefront of innovation, not just as an educational institution, but as a breeding ground for entrepreneurial talent. One of its flagship initiatives, the Embark Deep Tech Startup Creator, is currently seeking applications for its 2026 cohort of Startup Founders. This program promises to revolutionize the landscape for aspiring entrepreneurs by connecting them with groundbreaking university technologies.
A Unique Opportunity for Entrepreneurs
The Embark program will select up to seven individuals to serve as CEOs of new deep tech companies, each based on state-of-the-art technology emergent from CU Boulder’s renowned research facilities. This isn’t just a straightforward job; it’s a chance to lead a startup with the backing of CU Boulder’s extensive resources, including salary support, comprehensive startup training, and connections to vital funding opportunities.
Application Deadline: Interested candidates should note that applications are due by September 12.
Driving Technology from Lab to Market
Every year, CU Boulder generates approximately 180 unique inventions from its research labs. In 2025, the university was recognized as the 18th highest U.S. university for granted patents, indicating a robust pipeline of innovative ideas. Although many innovations are successfully spun out and brought to market, there remains a substantial opportunity for untapped technologies that could benefit from entrepreneurial efforts.
Bryn Rees, associate vice chancellor for innovation and partnerships, emphasizes the vast potential of university-discovered technologies. "Just because the university inventors didn’t create a startup company doesn’t mean the technology isn’t a compelling opportunity. We believe some of our best innovations are available, and Embark is a way to catalyze that."
Bridging the Gap Between Innovators and Entrepreneurs
Embark was launched in 2023 to create synergy between entrepreneurs eager to explore pioneering technologies and researchers who may not have the inclination or capacity to lead a startup. This initiative not only provides access to technologies but also immerses founders in one of the most vibrant startup ecosystems globally.
Venture Partners has meticulously curated a portfolio of promising innovations across a variety of scientific and engineering disciplines. For researchers who developed these technologies but are uninterested in entrepreneurship, Embark presents a meaningful opportunity to translate their work into real-world applications, subsequently generating revenue for themselves and their labs.
Excitement for New Ventures
Marta Zgagacz, senior director at Venture Partners, reflects on the enthusiasm among researchers, stating, "Our researchers are incredibly eager to see their technology evolve through the Embark program, with hopes of producing a successful startup."
Since its inception, Embark has spun out 20 new companies, with 13 participating in accelerators or incubators. Impressively, 12 have gone on to secure follow-on funding, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in fostering viable startups.
Support Beyond Funding
One of the critical challenges for many founders venturing into deep tech is financial instability during the startup phase. As Amy Dodenhoff, director of venture development, points out, many budding entrepreneurs struggle without a salary in the early stages of building their businesses. Embark addresses this issue by providing salary support, thereby democratically opening opportunities for aspiring founders, regardless of their financial situation.
In addition to financial backing, Embark equips founders with a comprehensive suite of resources tailored to navigate the complex startup landscape—whether it’s the first venture or the nth.
Application Process and Expectations
Individuals looking to apply for the Embark Startup Founder positions can do so through the Venture Partners website. Candidates will have the opportunity to dive deep into the technologies, familiarize themselves with available resources, and meet with the inventors. Following a presentation of their commercialization plans, Venture Partners will select up to seven candidates as founding CEOs. These chosen founders will benefit from a six-month part-time salary and the full strength of CU Boulder’s incredible entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Featured Companies Launched Through Embark
The success stories emerging from the Embark program reflect its profound impact. Young startups birthed under this initiative are not just contributing to the local economy but also pushing boundaries in technology development, from renewable energy solutions to advanced medical devices. Each of these companies represents a unique intersection of academic research and market needs, proving that when innovation meets entrepreneurship, the possibilities are endless.
The Embark Deep Tech Startup Creator exemplifies a strategic approach to harnessing university research for societal good. It’s a unique moment for both innovators and entrepreneurs as they leverage CU Boulder’s significant intellectual assets to shape the future.
